Computer-Assisted Endomicroscopic Surgery

Summary

Conventional neuroendoscopic surgery using a stereotaxic frame has two important problems: difficulty of holding the lenscope and loss of orientation. To solve these problems, we developed a new type of endoscopic surgery, computer-assisted endomicroscopic surgery. Computer-assisted endomicroscopic surgery was performed using the “navigated endomicroscope,” consisting of a lenscope, a neuronavigation system, and a mechanical holding system. A three-dimensional (3-D) video system is also available. The motion of the system is smooth, and the endoscope can easily be set at any position and to any direction and also held very firmly. The position of the endoscope in the brain was continuously monitored throughout the operations. This configuration resembles a small system of a microscope equipped with neuronavigation. We believe the endomicroscope provides one means of minimally invasive neurosurgery.